The U.S. Army is actively exploring the potential for commercial modifications to its UH-60M Black Hawk helicopter fleet, aiming to extend the aircraft’s service life well into 2050. This initiative, under the midlife modernization effort, reflects a significant step toward ensuring the long-term viability and readiness of these vital helicopters.
As detailed in a recent request for information (RFI), the Army plans to overhaul between 12 to 24 UH-60M helicopters as well as a varying number of HH-60M medical evacuation versions. The overhaul process will involve a complete disassembly of each helicopter for thorough inspections. Any damaged or defective airframe components will either be repaired or replaced, while corrosion and fatigue issues will be addressed with targeted remediation and preventive measures.
This modernization effort is being overseen by the U.S. Army’s Utility Helicopters Project Office (UHPO). By expanding sustainment capacity for airframe repairs and component overhauls, the Army aims to maintain operational readiness as the Black Hawk fleet continues to age. Currently, over 2,000 UH-60Ms are in service, having been deployed since 2006. The Army is also engaged in negotiations with Sikorsky for an 11th multi-year production contract to continue procuring new UH-60Ms until 2032.
Through the RFI, the Army is seeking insights into feasible modification levels and assessing industry capacity to execute the required upgrades. In addition to the Army’s fleet, the program may extend to other U.S. military and civil government operators of H-60 aircraft, along with international Black Hawk customers.
“The Black Hawk has proven itself across decades of service,” said COL Ryan Nesrsta, the UHPO project manager. “Modernization and sustainment efforts in this initiative ensure our soldiers can continue to rely on the Black Hawk as the workhorse of Army Aviation for decades to come.”
The Black Hawk continues to exhibit evolving capabilities, undergoing various upgrades to include advancements in autonomy and artificial intelligence, as well as launch-effects integration. Recently, Sikorsky secured a $43-million contract to enhance the airframe and fuel systems while adding a digital backbone that facilitates uncrewed aerial systems and launch-effects capabilities. This upgrade aims to bolster payload, range, and readiness for future autonomous operations.
Prior to this contract, Sikorsky had already progressed in Black Hawk modernization by producing Upturned Exhaust System II kits, which improve infrared suppression and reduce weight, enhancing the helicopter’s reliability and maintainability. Moreover, in October, Sikorsky introduced a fully autonomous variant of the Black Hawk, integrating its third-generation fly-by-wire system with MATRIX autonomy technology. This uncrewed version is intended for autonomous logistics, drone deployment, and missions requiring extended endurance, ultimately reducing pilot workload and improving safety in contested environments.
Additionally, the Black Hawk recently completed its first flight test of the Altius 700 air vehicle, developed by Anduril, validating its performance across all operational phases for the newly integrated launch-effects systems. This comprehensive modernization initiative positions the Black Hawk to remain a critical asset for Army Aviation in the years to come.
